A few weeks ago my wife and I spent the weekend back in our hometown in Western Maryland. While there, I took the opportunity to drive by the home where I grew up. For some reason I like to drive back into the old neighborhood when I go "home". As I sit here now, I'm not sure that I have the depth of vocabulary to adequately convey the thoughts and emotion that come over me when I go back to 25 Mullin Street.
Growing up, I couldn't wait to leave home and set out on a life of my own. And now, I wish I could go back to those times, even if only for a moment, to sit in the same room with my mom and dad. As a teenager, I was in such a hurry to start my own life that I am not sure that I appreciated the life that I had. I'm also not sure that I appreciated the unflappable love that my parents gave me or the sacrifices that they made to help me get ahead in this world. And so, I would give anything to hug my mom and tell her that she was the best and to tell her that her secret was safe with me...she needn't worry about me telling my brothers that I was her favorite child. As for my dad, I would love tell him that all of the advice that he gave me over the years was spot on. Looking back, I now see clearly that he was preparing me to be a man of God just like he was. He was and will forever be my hero.
You know, there's something about driving by the old house that helps me to re-center on my life's journey. There's a certain calming effect that comes from remembering. When I am there I'm reminded that before the foundation of the world God planned for me to grow up in that house with two of the most loving people that He ever created. Growing up Kirby was all part of God's plan for my life.
I've learned that life is all about perspective and sometimes you just need to stop and reflect on where you are and where you came from. It's the journey, and it's beginnings, that point you to your destination.
Be Well.
Bill
